A keystone species is an organism that defines and supports an entire ecosystem, filling a vital ecological niche. Without these species, ecosystems would be radically altered or even collapse. This full-color, pocket-sized field guide by best-selling naturalist Collin Varner highlights fifty keystone birds, mammals, amphibians, insects, fish, shellfish, and mollusks found across the Pacific Northwest bioregion. Species profiled include the American crow, bald eagle, American beaver, California sea lion, sea otter, orca, coyote, grizzly bear, giant Pacific octopus, Chinook salmon, Pacific tree frog, Pacific banana slug, and mixed bumblebee. Each entry features clear photography, etymology, descriptions, habitat information, and risks and warnings. This convenient and easy-to-use reference is perfect for walkers, hikers, campers, beachcombers, sailors, paddlers, and whale watchers and important for raising awareness of the need to conserve and protect these vital species.
Author Biography:
Collin Varner is a horticulturalist/arboriculturalist. Over his forty-year career, he worked at the University of British Columbia’s Botanical Garden, assumed responsibility for conserving twenty-five thousand trees across campus, and taught courses in native plant studies. Now retired, Varner is an avid photographer, world traveler, and best-selling author of The Flora and Fauna of the Pacific Northwest, Edible and Medicinal Flora of the West Coast, and Invasive Flora of the West Coast.
